How to Resolve Conflicts With Your Neighbors

From the Newark Police Department:

Police are often called to resolve neighborhood disputes simply because neighbors—who do not know each other—have a disagreement. By getting to know your neighbor, many of the root causes of neighborhood disputes can be avoided. Here are some simple suggestions to help you resolve neighborhood disputes.

Neighborhood Conflict Resolution Guide

• Introduce yourself to your neighbors even before a conflict begins. You can help prevent unnecessary conflicts just by taking the time to introduce yourself and say, “Hi, Neighbor!”

• Sometimes individuals are not aware that their actions are offensive others. One of the best solutions is to talk to the offending person or persons. A simple and courteous conversation can often solve many issues.

• If you do not wish to contact the offending individual in person, consider sending them a polite letter asking them to help you with the issue.

• If applicable, consider contacting others in the neighborhood that might be able to help you with the issue. Examples include an apartment manager, landlord, or homeowner’s association.

• Perhaps you’re not the only person dealing with the same problem. Meet with other neighbors to deal with the problem as a team or group and to look for a solution together.

• The City of Newark might be able to assist you with certain issues from the various City of Newark departments such as the Police Department, or Code Enforcement. Please visit www.newark.org for more information.

• The Newark Police Department also has a Community Engagement Division that could assist you with starting a Neighborhood Watch group. Please contact Special Assistant Tim Jones at (510) 578-4209 or via email at tim.jones@newark.org.

• Small Claims Court may be able to provide relief for financial burdens you incur. Visit http://www.alameda.courts.ca.gov/Pages.aspx/Small-Claims for more information.

Anyone with information about crimes or suspicious activity in Newark is asked to call Newark Police Department's non-emergency line at 510-578-4237 or can call the Silent Witness Hotline at 510-578-4000, extension 500.

Follow the Newark Police Department at nixle.com.